Marisa Moazen Named Director of Undergraduate Research

Marisa Moazen has been named the new director of Undergraduate Research for the Office of Research & Engagement at the University of Tennessee, effective September 1.

Moazen joins ORE from Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) where she was responsible for connecting faculty and students from across the nation with research opportunities within the federal government.

“I am excited to be joining the University of Tennessee,” said Moazen. “I look forward to working with students across campus and bringing greater awareness and access to the benefits of undergraduates research. Studies have shown that students involved in undergraduate research have increased confidence, awareness and understanding of their chosen field.”

The Office of Undergraduate Research helps facilitate experiential learning activities that enable students to have an early start their careers through research opportunities, internships, and events specifically tailored to the advancement of knowledge and abilities through the conduct of research.

The directorship is a new position at the Office of Research & Engagement. However, for the past four years, Sharon Pound, ORE’s strategic research initiative manager, has been the driving force behind Undergraduate Research.

“Dr. Moazen brings a wealth of experience and talent to this important position in the Office of Research & Engagement,” said Dr. Taylor Eighmy, Vice Chancellor for Research & Engagement. “She will take the existing foundational program and expand collaborative discovery opportunities for our students and faculty. Undergraduate research and discovery can have a profound impact on the undergraduate learning experience. We are excited about this expanded focus.”

Moazen, who earned her doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Tennessee, has an extensive background in program management for both nonprofits and educational institutes.

Before her work with ORAU, she was an adjunct marketing professor and the professional development institute director at Tusculum College. Prior to that, she was the executive director of the Joy of Music Youth Music School, an after-school program that provides free music lessons to children of low- to moderate-income levels.

Not only is Moazen a Volunteer in her professional life, she also serves on the Alumni Advisory Council for Leadership Knoxville, is regent for a local chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a volunteer for the Friends of the Library, among other organizations.